You cannot bring outside food or drinks into the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium does not allow visitors to bring their own food, beverages, or snacks into the building. This policy applies to all guests, including children. The aquarium enforces this rule at the entrance, and staff will ask you to finish or dispose of any outside food or drinks before you enter.
The restriction exists partly to protect the animals and the exhibits. Food and drink spills can contaminate tanks and harm marine life. It also helps the aquarium manage waste and keep the facility clean during busy visiting hours. The policy is consistent across all indoor areas of the aquarium.
Key Takeaways
- Outside food and drinks are not permitted anywhere inside the Georgia Aquarium building.
- Staff will stop you at the entrance if you are carrying outside food or beverages and ask you to dispose of them.
- The aquarium operates its own food vendors and restaurants where you can purchase meals and snacks during your visit.
- You can bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it at water fountains throughout the facility.
- If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, check the aquarium's food vendor menus online before your visit to confirm options are available.
Food and Drink Options Inside the Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium has multiple places to buy food and drinks while you are there. The main food court is located in the Beluga and Otter galleries and serves sandwiches, salads, pizza, and grab-and-go items. Prices are typical for venue food—expect to pay more than you would at a restaurant outside the aquarium.
Smaller concession stands are scattered throughout the building, selling snacks like popcorn, pretzels, ice cream, and candy. Bottled water, sodas, juices, and coffee are available at most of these locations. If you want to eat a full meal, plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes at the food court during peak visiting times.
What Happens If You Try to Bring Food Inside
Security staff at the entrance check bags and will identify any food or drinks you are carrying. You will be asked to either eat or drink the item before entering, or throw it away. There is no exception process—the rule is applied uniformly to all visitors.
If you have already entered and are caught eating outside food in a gallery, staff may ask you to stop and dispose of the food. Repeated violations could result in being asked to leave the facility, though this is rare for a first offense.
Planning Your Visit Around Meals
If you want to minimize food costs, eat a meal before you arrive at the aquarium. Most visitors spend two to four hours inside, so arriving after breakfast or lunch can reduce the need to purchase expensive venue food.
If you are visiting with young children, bring empty bottles or cups that you can fill at water fountains. This saves money on bottled drinks and reduces plastic waste. The aquarium has water fountains in most gallery areas, though they can have lines during busy times.
Dietary Restrictions and Allergies
If you have food allergies or follow a specific diet, contact the Georgia Aquarium's food service vendor before your visit. You can find current vendor information and menus on the aquarium's official website. Some vendors offer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, but availability varies by location within the aquarium.
Do not assume that all food stands carry the same items. The main food court typically has more variety than the smaller concession stands, so plan to eat there if you need specific dietary options.
Bringing Water Bottles and Reusable Containers
You can bring an empty reusable water bottle into the Georgia Aquarium and fill it at water fountains throughout the building. This is permitted and encouraged as an environmentally friendly option. Water fountains are located near restrooms and in major gallery areas.
Do not bring a bottle already filled with outside beverages—this violates the outside food and drink policy. The distinction is that you are using the aquarium's water fountains, not bringing beverages from outside.
Special Events and Group Visits
If you are visiting as part of a large group or organized tour, ask the aquarium in advance whether any exceptions to the food policy explore. Some private events or group bookings may have different rules, but standard daytime visits do not.
Birthday parties and private events held at the aquarium may have catering options. Contact the aquarium's events department directly to discuss what is allowed for your specific booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a baby bottle or formula for an infant?
Yes. Baby bottles with formula or breast milk are permitted. You can also ask staff where to find a microwave or warm water if you need to heat a bottle. The aquarium is generally accommodating to families with infants regarding feeding needs.
What if I have a severe food allergy and cannot eat the aquarium's food?
Contact the Georgia Aquarium before your visit and explain your allergy. Ask whether you can bring a meal or snack specifically for medical reasons. While the standard policy prohibits outside food, the aquarium may make exceptions for documented medical needs. Get written confirmation before you arrive.
Can I eat food in the parking lot and then enter?
Yes. If you eat or finish your drink in the parking lot before entering the building, you can then go through security with an empty container. This is a common approach for visitors who want to eat before their visit.
Are there picnic areas outside the aquarium where I can eat my own food?
The Georgia Aquarium is located in downtown Atlanta with limited outdoor seating. There are some benches and outdoor areas near the building, but they are not designated picnic zones. You would need to check with the aquarium about whether eating outside on their grounds is permitted.
Can I bring candy or gum for my kids?
No. Candy, gum, and all other outside snacks are prohibited, even small items. The policy applies to all food and drinks without exception. Purchase snacks from the concession stands inside instead.